Metropolis Restored is a science fiction film directed by Fritz Lang and originally released in 1927. It tells the story of a futuristic city where the working-class citizens are oppressed by the ruling elite. The movie features impressive special effects for its time, with elaborate sets and ambitious cinematography. The plot revolves around the character of Freder (Gustav Frohlich), the privileged son of the city's ruler, who becomes aware of the bleak reality of the workers when he meets a woman named Maria (Brigitte Helm) from the underground city. The two characters fall in love, leading Freder on a journey of self-discovery as he becomes aware of the inequality in his society.
In the meantime, the sinister scientist Rotwang (Rudolf Klein-Rogge) builds a robotic replica of Maria named the Maschinenmensch, which is used by the ruling class to manipulate and control the workers. The Maschinenmensch is a highlight of the film, with its mechanical design and eerie presence on screen.
The themes of class struggle and societal inequality are at the forefront of the story, and Metropolis Restored is recognized as an influential piece of cinema that explored these ideas at a time when such topics were rarely addressed in popular culture. The film is also notable for its female characters, particularly Maria and the Maschinenmensch, who challenge traditional gender roles and provide a commentary on female agency in a male-dominated society.
Despite its critical acclaim, the original version of Metropolis underwent significant edits and cuts from its original release. The film was poorly received by audiences upon its initial release, leading to a significant reduction in its runtime and the removal of several key scenes. The original negative was thought to have been lost, leading to multiple versions of the film with varying degrees of restored footage and re-edits.
However, in 2008, a restored version of Metropolis was released that incorporated newly-discovered footage and modern special effects. This version of the film, which is considered the most complete and faithful to Lang's original vision, features an additional 25 minutes of footage not seen in previous releases.
The restored version of Metropolis is a stunning work of art, with vibrant visuals and a sweeping musical score that captures the grandeur of the city setting. The attention to detail is remarkable, with intricate set designs and costume choices that convey the opulence and excess of the ruling class alongside the desperation and hardship of the workers.
In addition to the film's visual and thematic elements, the performances of the actors are also noteworthy. Brigitte Helm's portrayal of both Maria and the Maschinenmensch is a standout, conveying a range of emotions despite the limitations of the mechanical suit. Gustav Frohlich's portrayal of Freder also highlights the character's growth and development over the course of the film.
Overall, Metropolis Restored is a timeless classic that remains relevant today. Its exploration of societal inequality and the power dynamics between classes is still resonant in modern times, and its technical achievements continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. The restored version of the film is a must-see for fans of science fiction, cinema history, and political commentary.
